यथापराधमिति कौटिल्यः ॥ कZ_०२.७.१५ ॥
yathāparādham iti kauṭilyaḥ
कौटिल्य कहते हैं: (दण्ड) अपराध के अनुसार (होना चाहिए)।
Punishment should be calibrated to the gravity and circumstances of the misconduct, enabling fair enforcement while preserving deterrence.